Christmas tree permits from the Flathead National Forest are available for $5 each from Forest Service offices in Kalispell, Hungry Horse and Bigfork and from a variety of vendors across the valley.

This year the forest is only able to accept cash payments. Each permit is valid for one tree and there is a maximum of two permits per household. Commercial permits are not available.  

The forest has an abundant choice of trees from which to choose.

Trees may not be cut in campgrounds or other developed areas, plantations, previously thinned stands and areas posted closed to Christmas tree cutting. 

The permit must be fastened around the tree trunk prior to transporting your tree from the forest.

People are asked to select a tree that is three to four inches in diameter or less at the stump. 

Permit holders are urged to cut as close to the ground as possible, 8 inches or shorter, and to not cut the top of a tree or leave live limbs attached to the stump.

The Christmas tree permit is only for national forest lands.

For more information about vendors and permits, contact the Tally Lake Ranger District/Supervisors Office at 758-5204, the Hungry Horse-Glacier View and Spotted Bear ranger districts at 387-3800 or the Swan Lake Ranger District at 837-7500.